National Holocaust Memorial Day is Thursday,January 27.

The aim of Holocaust Memorial Day is to mark not only the Holocaust, but other human rights tragedies and wars, past and present.

The theme for this year is 'Survivors, Liberation and Rebuilding Lives'.

There will be a memorial event at noon next Thursday at the Friends Meeting House, Eastcott Hill.

The event will include readings and presentations by members of many of Swindon's faith groups and community groups. There will also be appropriate quiet time. Light lunchtime refresh-ments, including sandwiches and hot drinks will be provided and the event is expected to last for at least one hour.

This year is the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz concentration camps and to mark this, a wreath will be laid in a brief ceremony at the Cenotaph, Regents Circus at 11.30am, prior to the memorial event at Friends Meeting House.

The Mayor of Swindon, Peter Stoddart said: "National Holocaust Day provides a national commitment to oppose racism, anti-Semitism, victimisation and genocide.

"This event provides an opportunity for the people of Swindon to show their commitment to building a strong and caring community, which embraces people of all faiths, beliefs, backgrounds, languages and nations."

Matt Holland, event organiser added: "To be together on this day, to remember, respect and reflect, is a privilege. It is of real value and a help towards reaching greater love and understanding between us all."

For details contact Matt Holland on 01793 771080 or at matt@lowershawfarm.co.uk.

More information at holocaust-memorialday.gov.uk